Learning to ride a motorcycle can be a life-changing and exhilarating experience no matter how old you are when you take the leap. At Surdyke, we’re fortunate to have worked with young children learning to ride (on bikes from our off-road inventory, of course), eager teens, adventurous seniors, and everyone in between. You’re never too old to become a first-time rider. But before you hit the open road, you will first need a motorcycle licenseyour right of passage to motorcycle bliss, if you will. The law is the law, after all. Fortunately, the process isn’t so bad and you’ll be riding off in no time.

1)  Take a Safety Course

The first step to becoming ready for the road on two wheels is to take a motorcycle safety course. While most states do not mandate the course as a provision for licensed riders, motorcycle safety courses are still highly recommended and extremely valuable. Even experienced riders should consider taking the course every so often just to keep their skills in tune. Depending on the state in which you’re licensed, successful completion of the course can, in some instances, fulfil the riding portion of your license exam and can even get you a discount on your insurance. Safety courses are offered at many major dealerships across the nation as well as certain community centers, area colleges, and other venues. To find a location near you, CLICK HERE

(NOTE: To learn more about Surdyke’s Riding Academy, CLICK HERE

2)  Learn Your State’s Requirements

Motorcycle riding requirements differ from state to state, so you’ll want to do some research to find out whether you’ll need a motorcycle license or endorsement. A license is similar to your driver’s license, but specific to motorcycles. In contrast, an endorsement is an addition to your driver’s license which allows you to legally operate a motorcycle. States also have varying regulations surrounding testing formats and age requirements, so it’s best to contact your local DMV or government website to learn the specifics about your home state. Generally, 16 years of age is the minimum requirement to obtain a license or endorsement and riders under 18 will need to first obtain a permit.

3)  Take Your Test

The process of obtaining your license/endorsement is also dependent upon your state’s regulations, but in most cases, you’ll be required to complete the following:

• Written test (70 percent is considered passing in most instances)
• Vision screening
• Road skills test (some states will waive this requirement once you complete a safety course)

If you don’t pass on the first try, not to worry. You can try again after a set amount of time has passed (the exact duration is, again, dependent on your state’s laws).

4)  Hit the Road

Once you’ve passed the test, congratulations are in order! You are finally free to hit the open road! Enjoy the freedom and excitement that millions of riders all over the world experience every single day. You’ll learn there is nothing quite like seeing the world from the back of a motorcycle.

And if you’re still nervous about riding at this point, that’s completely normal and it will pass over time as you put more and more miles of pavement behind you. And remember, even after you’ve graduated from novice to expert rider, it’s still a good idea to find and retake a local safety course every now and then. Honing your skills will only help to keep you, and those with whom you share the road, as safe as possible. Happy riding!